Painted Desert Ranger Cabin - VROB

It was unavoidable, I had to take Interstate 40. So, to make lemonade, I 'cided to explore some of the exits I'd skipped in previous years.


Although I didn't go in to Stewart's, I couldn't resist the insouciant smile...

Piddling into the outback came this sign...

Their website

82 miles west of Gallup, New Mexico at EXIT 303, although the road required a bit of caution here and there, The Schvoog (2008 Honda FIT) managed it.

At the park boundary sign we knew we'd "made it"....into the wilds, that is.

An area of badlands...

With its own Camel Rock...

Other beauties...this one with highlights.

Artifacts both old...

and new...

Laguna Pueblo Arts Center

Next time you're on interstate 40 about forty miles West of Albuquerque, you may wanna stop at the Laguna Indian Arts Center of New Laguna Pueblo. They have some excellent Kachinas (including a few contemporary ones wearing tennis shoes), jewelry (there are/were a couple of money clips that are especially good deals) and much more...all of which is authentic, Native American crafted work.

Watch for the Laguna Burger exit and follow old route 66 about a New York block past the gas station. The Center sits back from the highway a little. The window at the left end (with the awning) is where they dispense the fry-bread.

It's family owned and operated. If you go, please say hi to Dom (short for Dominic) for me. And don't hesitate to engage with him or his friends on topics of discussion; the place is a hot-bed of debate.